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Updated: Aug 23, 2025
08:33
A Cross-Disciplinary and Multi-Modal Experimental Design for Studying Near-Real-Time Authentic Examination Experiences
Published on: September 4, 2019
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A straightforward graphical/statistical approach to help substantiate cheating on multiple-choice examinations.
David C Poole1,2, Steven W Copp1, Timothy I Musch1,2
1Department of Kinesiology, Kansas State University, Manhattan, Kansas.
Advances in Physiology Education
|November 3, 2022
Summary
Academic dishonesty, particularly cheating on multiple-choice exams, was statistically confirmed between two students using error-similarity analysis. This objective method demonstrated a high probability (P < 0.00001) of an Honor Code violation, supporting academic integrity measures.
Area of Science:
- Educational Psychology
- Academic Integrity
- Statistical Analysis in Education
Background:
- Academic dishonesty is a significant issue in large university classes, especially during in-class examinations.
- Close seating arrangements in large exams can facilitate cheating.
- Proctor observations of suspicious behavior prompted an investigation into a potential Honor Code violation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To present an objective, statistical method for detecting cheating on multiple-choice exams.
- To maintain exam and academic integrity in a transparent manner for students and university bodies.
- To statistically validate suspected Honor Code violations observed during an examination.
Main Methods:
- Utilized established error-similarity analysis for multiple-choice exams.
- Calculated the probability of identical incorrect answers occurring by chance between two students.
- Compared the observed number of identical incorrect answers against expected chance occurrences (P < 0.00001).
Main Results:
- The number of identical incorrect answers between the two students was significantly higher than expected by chance.
- Graphical analysis of incorrect answers across 65 students (89 comparisons) supported an Honor Code violation.
- The statistical approach provided compelling evidence of cheating beyond a reasonable doubt.
Conclusions:
- The error-similarity analysis effectively confirmed cheating between the two students.
- This statistical method offers a transparent and objective approach to upholding academic integrity.
- Further investigation is needed to determine if the violation was unidirectional or bidirectional.
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